Netanyahu Urges Unity Government as Israel Awaits Presidential Mandate
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for a national unity government ahead of President Isaac Herzog's mandate decision, as opposition leaders Gadi Eisenkot and Yair Golan negotiate coalition terms.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a video call for a national unity government, warning against what he termed a dangerous administration reliant on terror supporters. The appeal came at a critical juncture, moments before President Isaac Herzog is expected to award the mandate to form the next government following recent elections.
Netanyahu asserted that a government dependent on elements hostile to Zionism and security would dismantle Israel from within. He warned that such a coalition would fail to counter the Iranian nuclear threat, protect IDF soldiers, or maintain the character of the Jewish state, drawing parallels to civil unrest in European capitals.
Meanwhile, opposition leaders have outlined their own conditions for forming a coalition. Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar party, emphasized his plan for a rapid national emergency government based on four core principles: recognizing Israel as a Jewish and democratic state, upholding the Declaration of Independence, universal national service, and committing to the dismantling of Hamas.
Simultaneously, Yair Golan, head of The Democrats, called for a pragmatic partnership with the Haredi public while insisting on mandatory military service and economic integration. Golan stressed that any coalition must also respect pluralistic values, ensuring public transport and leisure activities on weekends in allied municipalities.
